What to Do When Your Toilet is Blocked: A Step-by-Step Guide
Toilet blockages can occur at any moment and can be a frequent household problem. They can be unpleasant messy and uninspiring and require immediate attention. However, you don’t need to call an plumber right away. In this blog we’ll guide you through simple ways to clean your toilet in no time.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet blockages can be cured with the use of simple tools such as plungers, baking soda
The Tools You’ll Need
Before we get started, it’s essential to be prepared with these tools:
- Rubber Gloves
- Plunger
- Baking Soda and Vinegar (Optional)
- The Hanger for Wire Coats or the Plumbing Snake (Optional)
Step 1: Shut off the water supply valve.
The first thing you need to do when faced with a blocked toilet is to turn off water valves that is behind the toilet. This step ensures that no water can enter the tank during your work on unclogging it. The valve usually is situated near in the middle of the tank on one side.
Step 2: Guard yourself with rubber gloves.
Hands must be protected against germs and bacteria present in your toilet by wearing rubber gloves prior making use of any tool to clear the toilet.
Step 3: Use a plunger.
The plunger is by far the most efficient tool for getting rid of blocked toilets. First, push down gently upon the plunger until air is released, then place it firmly on the hole in your toilet and begin to plunge upwards and downwards for approximately 20 seconds. The suction generated when you plunge back and forth will help remove any blockages.
Tips:
- Use a firm but controlled motion.
- Place holes around sinks or shower drains, if they are near to stop the air from escaping when you plunge.
Step 4: Test baking soda and vinegar mix.
If the plunge doesn’t work, try this next tactic to pour half a mug of baking soda as well as one cups of white vinegar to the toilet. The mixture should sit for about 15 minutes. It will fizz a bit but when it ceases to fizz, pour hot water down (not overly hot) to flush out the blockage.
Step 5 Utilize a coat hanger that is wire or a plumbing snake.
If plunging, baking soda and vinegar have not worked and you are in need of a solution, it’s time to try a wire coat hanger or plumbing snake. You can straighten out the coat hanger’s wire until have a thin, long wire that has a hook that is bent on one side or it as a plumbing snake that is made specifically to clear drain obstructions. Put the tool in the drain hole on your toilet, and twist to turn, push, at the same time until you sense resistance; there’s usually a blockage occurs. Gently try to break up any obstructions using a back-and-forth movement without causing damages in your pipeline.
Note:
- Be careful not to push or pull actions as they could make things worse
Step 6: Restart the water supply, and then check the result
Once you’ve eliminated any obstructions, it’s vital to turn on the supply of water that is behind your toilet. Then flush it several times to make sure that everything flows freely now!
| Tools | Description |
|---|---|
| Rubber Gloves | Hand protection from potential bacteria or germs present in the toilet bowl. |
| Plunger | Most effective tool for clearing up blocked toilets. Press firmly over the hole in your toilet bowl and plunge vigorously up and down for about 20 seconds. |
| Baking Soda and Vinegar | Mixture to use if plunging doesn’t work. Pour half a cup of baking soda and one cup of vinegar into the toilet bowl. Let this mixture settle for about 15 minutes, then pour hot water down (not boiling) to flush out the blockage. |
| Wire Coat Hanger or Plumbing Snake | Tools to use if both plunging and baking soda/vinegar methods have failed. Straighten the wire coat hanger until you have a long thin wire with a hook bent at one end or use the plumbing snake, which is designed specifically for clearing drain clogs. |
Frequently Asked Question
How do I know when my toilet has become blocked?
Some of the more common signs of a blocked toilet is when the water fills up to the top after flushing. You might also notice that water drains away in a slow manner, or hear sounds of gurgling coming out of the bathroom.
What should I do if the toilet is blocked?
If you suspect that your toilet has been blocked and you are unable to flush it, do not attempt to flush it over again since this could cause flooding. Instead, shut off the water supply to the valve behind the toilet and use a plunger to try and remove any blockages. If this fails you can call Perth Blocked Drains Plumber for professional help.
Can I stop my toilet from getting blocked?
Yes! There are many actions you can take to stop your toilet from being blocked. This includes avoiding flushing items that are not biodegradable, such as the sanitary products, wet wipes or cotton wool in the toilet. Also, avoid spilling oil or grease down the drain, which could cause solidification and block pipes.
What is the best time to call a professional plumber for the problem of a toilet that is blocked?
If you’ve tried plunging your toilet, but it isn’t unblocking, or you think that there’s an issue in your plumbing system causing frequent blockages, it’s the right time to call in an experienced plumber such as Perth Blocked Drains Plumber . We have many years of experience tackling any plumbing problem and can swiftly diagnose and address any issues without causing any disturbance to the home.
What is the best frequency to have my drains cleared?
It is recommended that you get cleaning your drainage system by a professional like Perth Blocked Drains Plumber every 1-2 years. This will help prevent obstructions and keep your plumbing system in good working order. However, if you frequently have problems with drains blocking or slow draining of water despite making sure you are taking steps to prevent clogging them, then yearly cleaning is beneficial.
These procedures are fairly easy to implement as the majority of products are easily available in households. If you’re having trouble with your toilets, don’t be panicking after attempting all these methods mentioned above – contact Perth Blocked Drains Plumber ‘s expert plumbers located in Perth , if you’re searching for professional assistance for problems with your blocked toilets.
Additional Information
- How to Tell You Need Drain Clearing Services for Your Business
- Dealing with Blocked Drains: DIY Techniques vs Professional Services
- DIY Drain Cleaning: How to Safely Tackle Clogged Drains
- Is It Time for a CCTV Drain Inspection? Here's What You Need to Know
- Reasons Why CCTV Drain Inspection is a Must Before Purchasing a Property
- Understanding the Technical Aspects of a CCTV Drain Inspection Report
- Avoiding Clogged Drains: Tips for Homeowners
- The Importance of CCTV Drain Inspections in Preventing Expensive Property Damage
- Effective Ways to Clear a Clogged Shower Drain Naturally
- Top Reasons to Avoid DIY Drain Unblocking
